Turkish chai, Baklava, Hot air balloons, Evil eye, Sulphur springs and Turkish Lamps encapsulate any trip to Turkey. With two weeks in hand to spend in this foreign land, here are some places that you should have on your list.
# IstanbulIstanbul is a city nestled on the banks of the Bosphorus river. There are two sides namely the European side and the Asian side. A hub for youngsters and the elderly alike, is the European side. You can either stay at Sultanahmet with its old world charm, or stay in Taksim with hip, bustling life. If you like lively nightlife and entertainment, Taksim is the place to be in. If you are one who loves historical attractions, choose the Sultanahmet area. With the wondrous Hagia Sophia and the Blue mosque neighbouring each other, the old town has a surreal charm. The Grand Bazar is also around Sultanahmet.
This area, however, lacks enough options for nightlife and restaurants. While in Taksim you’ll find plenty of restaurants and shopping strips to choose from. Some hidden gems that are a must visit for every tourist are: Galata tower (spectacular view of the entire city), Balat (Arts district), Hafiz Mustafa (Most divine desserts especially The Tres Leche).
# CappadociaA bewitching place surrounded by fairy chimneys, underground cities and hot air balloons, the land of Cappadocia is magical. With numerous cave hotels to choose from Goreme is a lovely quaint town to stay in. A Hot air balloon ride at the break of dawn is a must in Cappadocia. The balloon floats over the fairy chimneys and the fields. The panoramic view of the other balloons flying alongside is an enchanting experience that will stay with a person forever.
Other activities that one should partake in are, exploring the fairy chimneys in Goreme national park and the underground city of Derinkuyu. Shoppers can find plenty of souvenirs ranging from miniatures of the fairy chimneys to evil eyes, and hot air balloons to choose from. A tradition of tying evil eyes to a tree for good luck is one that can be encountered only in Cappadocia.
# AntalyaFlanked by blue water and resorts is the city of Antalya. Its beaches vary from overcrowded and secluded to surrounded by nature. Depending on one’s personal taste one has the option of staying in luxury resorts or in a more secluded boutique hotel. The most important historic sight in Antalya is Hadrian’s Gate. Walking through the gate leads you into Antalya’s old town with its cobbled streets and ancient structures. It is a stop that must not be missed. It also has a viewing point overlooking the harbour and restaurants and nightlife accompanying it.
# Bodrum
Only minutes away from a Greek island set on the coastal stretch of the Aegean Sea is Bodrum. Its a popular tourist hub with plenty of entertainment, eating and shopping options. The houses and the structures are influenced by Greek architecture. There is an array of marinas but one of the most popular is the Palmarina. One can enjoy taking a stroll beneath the palm trees and indulge in the seafood that the port has to offer. A stretch of local boutiques is a treat for any shopaholic. Renting a boat to watch the sunset from, with champagne and wine is an ideal way to end the day with. You can see the port coming back to life as the sun goes down and the lights and the sound of the bars and the pubs call you back to the marina.